Japanese singer Nanao is set to make her official Philippine debut under KDR Music House, introducing a fresh genre called “JP-POP”—a unique fusion of J-pop sound and Tagalog lyrics.
Blending Japanese musical elements with Filipino storytelling, JP-POP features chant sections and interactive call-and-response moments inspired by Japan’s live music culture, offering a new listening experience for OPM audiences.
Leading her debut is the upbeat single “Pito Pito,” which will be released by KDR Music House on May 27, 2026. Inspired by the number seven—a symbol of luck and a nod to her name—the track is designed to bring listeners together through music and participation.
Prior to her debut, Nanao has already gained traction among Filipino fans through her OPM cover videos on social media, amassing over 10 million views across platforms.
Originally from Tokyo, Nanao developed a deep connection with the Philippines after visiting the country and later studying in Cebu, where she began learning English and Tagalog.
With her cross-cultural sound and growing fanbase, Nanao—together with KDR Music House—is poised to bring a new wave of global influence into the Philippine music scene.
Subscribers worldwide can now experience performances, highlights, and behind‑the‑scenes access in real time
Today, Disney+ and Hulu announced that Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival and Lollapalooza will stream live across both platforms for the first time, giving audiences around the world access to some of the year’s biggest live music moments in real time.
Now in Hulu’s sixth year of offering subscribers exclusive front-row access from the comfort of their home, the addition of the Disney+ global livestream further enhances Hulu’s historic run of streaming these Live Nation festivals by offering globally shared live events that can be watched simultaneously across continents.
“Music festivals are among the most electric, can’t-miss moments in culture, and now Disney+ and Hulu subscribers around the world can experience the excitement,” said Lauren Tempest, Head of Content Planning & Partnerships, DTC at The Walt Disney Company. “As we continue to extend our live offerings, we remain committed to bringing fans the biggest, most iconic moments right as they happen, and are thrilled to bring that vision to life with Live Nation.”
These festivals join Disney+ and Hulu’s expanding slate of live programming, making the services daily destinations for fans to stream the can’t-miss live content they love – from cultural moments to news and sports – as music fandom becomes increasingly global. The 2025 Live Nation Living for Live Global Study* reported that 73% of fans say that they are listening to more international artists than they used to, while 85% agree that live music now transcends borders and languages.
“Music festivals used to be experiences reserved for the people who could physically be there,” said Kevin Chernett, EVP, Head of Global Media Partnerships at Live Nation. “Now they’re becoming global live moments that fans want to experience together in real time, no matter where they are in the world. Expanding this partnership with Disney+ and Hulu allows these festivals to reach music fans at an entirely different scale.”
This year, Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival takes place June 12 – 15, and Lollapalooza July 31 – August 3. Additional details about the livestreams will be available ahead of each festival.
Three of the country’s leaders in entertainment, Newport World Resorts, VIVA Communications Inc., and The Philippine STAR, team up anew for Bongga Ka, ’Day!: The Annie Batungbakal Musical. At the forefront of this partnership are Newport World Resorts Executive Chairman Kevin L. Tan (center), VIVA Communications Inc. Founder and Chairman of the Board Vicente “Boss Vic” del Rosario Jr. (left), and The Philippine STAR President and CEO Miguel G. Belmonte (right).
Original Filipino musicals continue to take center stage as Newport World Resorts, VIVA Communications Inc., and The Philippine STAR reunite to stage Bongga Ka, ’Day!: The Annie Batungbakal Musical. The new musical, set to open in September 2026 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, features the timeless hits of the Hotdog band.
Leading the collaboration are Newport World Resorts Executive Chairman Kevin L. Tan, VIVA Communications Inc. Founder and Chairman of the Board Vicente “Boss Vic” del Rosario Jr., and The Philippine STAR President and CEO Miguel G. Belmonte. This marks the second major theatrical venture among the three companies following Bagets The Musical, which debuted as a large-scale adaptation of the iconic 1984 Filipino film.
“At Newport World Resorts, part of our thrust has always been to support world-class productions that champion Filipino artistry and bring our stories to bigger stages. We look forward to bringing this proudly Filipino production to life and creating another meaningful entertainment experience for our audiences,” shared Tan.
Bongga Ka, ’Day!: The Annie Batungbakal Musical is set to open in September 2026 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater.
Bongga Ka, ’Day!: The Annie Batungbakal Musical follows the story of an ambitious sales clerk who sneaks into the glamorous disco scene to chase her dream of becoming a fashion designer and risks losing herself in the process. Blending iconic OPM tracks, fashion, and nostalgia, the production reimagines the Manila Sound era for a new generation of theatergoers.
The continued partnership of Newport World Resorts, VIVA Communications Inc., and The Philippine STAR reflects the growing momentum behind original Filipino theater productions and large-scale collaborations within the local entertainment industry. Learn more about the artists and the production through Newport World Resorts (@newportworldresorts), VIVA Communications Inc. (@vivaartistsagency), and The Philippine STAR (@philippinestar) on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Sign up for the waitlist now via https://newportworldresorts.com/bkd-waitlist to be the first in line for tickets.
TOAST The Best of BREAD will be performing at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on August 12 and at The Waterfront Cebu City Hotel on August 15, 2026. With a surprising fidelity rarely heard from a live tribute band, TOAST is often described as “spot on” to Bread’s original recordings. Audiences everywhere rave about how closely their live performances sound like the cherished records they listened to back in the day.
Bread virtually invented soft rock in the early Seventies, and the group’s biggest hits – “Make It With You”, “If”, “Baby I’m-A-Want-You” and “Everything I Own” – remain staples on lite-rock radio.
People’s comments to TOAST’s concerts were like “I’ve had a lot of exposure to Bread’s music and I’m telling you, what an awesome show these guys put on! Truly amazing!”, “It was as if it was Bread themselves performing! Over the top amazing! Brought back so many memories”, “I loved how they paid tribute to David Gates and Bread. Really classy show”, “We sang, we laughed, we cried, we loved every minute! Can’t wait to see them again”.
Other Bread hits to be performed by TOAST include “Aubrey”, “Sweet Surrender”, “It Don’t Matter To Me”, “Clouds”, “Mother Freedom”, “Everything I Own”, “Guitar Man”, “Games Of Magic”, “Lost Without Your Love”, “Goodbye Girl”, among many other Filipino favorites.
Tickets prices to TOAST’s “feel-good” concerts that are sure to bring all the memories flooding back are P5800, 4800, 3800, 2800, 2300, 1800 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum and P4500, 4000, 3,500, 2500, 1500, 1000 at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel. Special guest is Noel Cabangon. Tickets available through ovationtickets.com. Presented by Ovation Productions in cooperation with Blast TV.
Filipino girl group KAIA is currently making waves online after their high-energy live performance of “Take Down” by HUNTR/X and their original track “You Did It” rapidly gained traction across social media platforms, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), drawing praise from international fans and music communities alike.
The viral clips—taken from their recent Backyard Live Spotlight performance—highlighted the group’s live vocals, harmonies, commanding stage presence, and explosive performance energy, earning reactions from fans across multiple fandoms, including K-pop and P-pop audiences.
One viral post alone surpassed over 2 million views, generating thousands of reposts, quotes, and engagements, with many viewers calling KAIA “criminally underrated” and praising the group’s ability to deliver a world-class live performance.
Composed of members Angela, Charice, Sophia, Alexa, and Charlotte, KAIA debuted in 2022 and has steadily built a reputation as one of the Philippines’ strongest live-performing girl groups. Their recent surge in online attention marks a significant breakthrough moment for the group and further reflects the growing international interest in P-pop.
The momentum comes shortly after KAIA’s participation in the ASEAN–Korea Music Festival: ROUND in Philippines 2026, the large-scale international music festival produced by KBS World TV in partnership with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, where KAIA represented the Philippines alongside leading local and Korean artists.
As part of the festival, KAIA also collaborated with fellow P-pop groups HORI7ON and 1st.One for “Sulong,” the official theme song of ROUND Festival Philippines 2026—a powerful anthem celebrating unity, youth culture, and the growing connection between Southeast Asia and Korea through music.
“Sulong” continues to gain attention following its official release and broadcast promotions econnected to the festival, further positioning Filipino artists within the expanding ASEAN–Korea cultural exchange movement.
The recent virality of KAIA’s performance is seen by many fans and industry observers as another major step forward for P-pop’s continued rise internationally, proving that Filipino artists can compete on the global stage through performance excellence, artistry, and authenticity.
From viral clips to international festival stages, KAIA is quickly emerging as one of the standout names shaping the next generation of Asian pop music.
Concert Features Composer John Williams’ Score Performed Live to Film by the Filharmonika OrchestraConducted by Gerard SalongaSeptember 5–6, 2026, at The Theatre at Solaire!
Film Concerts PH presents Star Wars: Return of the Jedi in Concert, featuring composer John Williams’ GRAMMY®-winning score performed live to the film. Audiences will experience the triumphant conclusion of the original Star Wars trilogy performed by the 85-member Filharmonika Orchestra, led by Gerard Salonga, on September 5–6, 2026, at The Theatre at Solaire. Following successful presentations of Star Wars: A New Hope In Concert in September 2024 and Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back In Concert in August 2025, Film Concerts PH continues its Star Wars concert series with the saga’s celebrated finale.
Since the release of the first Star Wars movie almost 50 years ago, the Star Wars saga has had a seismic impact on both cinema and culture, inspiring audiences around the world with its mythic storytelling, captivating characters, groundbreaking special effects, and timeless musical scores composed by Williams.
The film and its RIAA® gold-certified soundtrack feature eleven score cues created by legendary Academy Award® and GRAMMY® Award-winning composer, John Williams.
As the Empire prepares to crush the Rebellion with a more powerful Death Star, the Rebel Fleet counters with a massive attack on the space station. Luke Skywalker confronts Darth Vader in a final climactic duel.
Whether revisiting a cherished classic or discovering it for the first time, audiences of all ages are invited to journey to a galaxy far, far away this September.
Pre-sale access begins on May 8 at 10:00 AM, exclusively for members of the Film Concerts PH community. To gain early access to tickets, register now at https://www.filmconcerts.ph/community.
Public ticket sales will start on May 19 at 12:00 PM via Ticketworld.com.ph.
Universal Music Group (UMG) Philippines ushers Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) Professional League Philippines (MPL PH) into a bold new era, bringing music and esports together for a more immersive fan experience. In partnership with MPL PH, the league now comes with its own soundtrack, rallying behind the call “Palag Na ’To” and embracing the competitive spirit fueled by the Lakas ng Pinas.
From left to right: Enzo Valdez, Managing Director of UMG Philippines, Filipina singer and UMG Philippines artist Janine Berdin, Jane Camille Dela Cruz, Head of Marketing, Esports, Philippines, at MOONTON Games, and Lee Viloria, Head of Business Development and Partnerships, Esports, Philippines, at MOONTON Games.
Leading the charge is Janine Berdin, Island Records Philippines artist, songwriter, and a genuine MLBB player, who will debut the official MPL PH theme song. A self-written anthem rooted in her real passion for the game, the track captures the energy, grit, and identity of the MPL PH community. Known for her powerful vocals, Berdin steps into the esports spotlight with a sound that reflects both her artistry and her experience as a player. What sets this apart is her authenticity, as she is not just performing for gamers but is part of the scene herself. A Hanabi main who has ranked on the leaderboards, she brings real credibility into the collaboration. Her involvement reflects Lakas ng Pinas that defines the MPL PH community.
“Super excited ako to finally share this song with the community. As someone who genuinely plays MLBB, this project is very personal to me—it brings together two worlds I truly love, music and gaming. I poured my heart into this track, and I hope every player and fan can feel that energy and passion. Para sa lahat ng patuloy na lumalaban, whether in rank games or on the e-sports stage, this is for you—PALAG NA ‘TO!” Janine Berdin shares.
As the league’s official music partner, UMG Philippines plays a key role in defining the sound of the Season 17 Playoffs. The partnership introduces a new layer of storytelling, where music amplifies the emotions behind every clash, comeback, and championship moment. This collaboration aims to transform the league into a more immersive entertainment experience that goes beyond the game. Fans can expect more than just matches at the MPL PH Arena and MPL Festival. For the first time, live performances from rising OPM artists will be integrated into the esports experience.
Building on this momentum, Janine also highlights how meaningful it is to bring her voice into a space she genuinely belongs to, creating a track that resonates with both players and fans while celebrating the spirit of competition and community. “Music transforms gaming into something far more immersive—it doesn’t just accompany the action, it amplifies every emotion, heightens intensity, and turns each moment into a lasting experience,” said Enzo Valdez, Managing Director of UMG Philippines. “We’re incredibly excited about this partnership and look forward to building deeper collaborations with UMG artists that will keep pushing culture forward and connecting with fans in bold, new ways.”
This creates a dynamic environment where concerts and competition come together under the banner of “Palag Na ’To.” By blending high-stakes gameplay with music and live performances, MPL PH evolves into a full cultural platform for Filipino fans. It is no longer just about watching matches, but about feeling every moment. The experience extends beyond the arena into a shared space for community, creativity, and expression. Each moment reflects the passion and energy of the league’s growing fanbase.
Jane Camille Dela Cruz, Head of Marketing, Esports, Philippines, at MOONTON Games, said: “As MPL Philippines enters its 17th season, showcasing Filipino excellence in esports, and MLBB celebrates its 10th year, shaping the Filipino gaming culture, this collaboration celebrates the journey of MPL Philippines and the community that has grown with it. We thank Janine Berdin, Island Records Philippines, and Universal Music Group Philippines for bringing fans together into the spotlight by connecting gaming, music, and youth culture. With its own new soundtrack, MPL Philippines becomes more than an esports league. It now becomes a cultural experience brought to life by the entire MPL PH community across players, fans, and supporters.”
This collaboration reflects a bigger movement centered on the intersection of gaming, music, and youth culture in the Philippines. Both UMG Philippines and MPL PH are committed to deepening fan engagement by connecting with audiences through shared passions. MLBB has long been more than just a game for Filipinos. It is part of everyday life, from casual play to global competition. By giving the community its own sound, MPL PH strengthens its identity as more than just a league. It becomes a shared cultural experience that fans can hear, feel, and truly be part of, powered by Lakas ng Pinas.
Late-night thoughts just found their new soundtrack—Oh Stella! is officially signing with KDR Music House, marking the start of a new era for the Metro Manila-based band known for turning raw emotions into unforgettable music.
The ballad-alternative rock band, composed of Antonio Vivo and Gelo Santos on guitars, JM Santos on vocals, Bien Garcia on bass, and Johanan Fernandez on drums, continues to build a sound that resonates deeply with today’s generation—honest, emotional, and unapologetically real.
More than just a band, Oh Stella! creates music that feels like a companion. Through stories woven into their songs, they explore emotions that are often hard to express—serving as a friend to those who feel alone, a safe space for those who need comfort, and a reminder that even in uncertain moments, things will eventually fall into place.
Kicking off this new chapter, Oh Stella! is set to release their first single under KDR Music House, titled “I Guess.”
The track dives into the quiet heartbreak of missed chances—the kind that doesn’t come from loud goodbyes, but from the words left unsaid. It tells the story of letting someone slip away, and the slow realization that some feelings never really leave.
“I Guess” lives in that familiar in-between—when you convince yourself you’ve already moved on, but your heart keeps circling back. When memories feel distant, yet never fully gone. When the hardest truth to face is that no matter how much time has passed, you’re still not over them.
With a sound that speaks directly to late-night thoughts and unspoken emotions, Oh Stella! is set to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level as they begin their journey with KDR Music House.
And if you’ve ever found yourself replaying a moment you wish you could change—“I Guess” might just be the song you didn’t know you needed.
U.S.-based singer-songwriter Maya releases “ROMANTICIZE,” a new collaborative digital single with rising Japanese singer-songwriter Rol3ert, out 13 May 2026. The official music video premieres the same day at 8pm JST on Maya’s official YouTube channel.
A fully English-language mid-tempo ballad built around the concept of romanticizing the past, “ROMANTICIZE” was co-written and co-produced entirely on the day of Maya and Rol3ert’s very first session together. The track is produced by Tokyo-based beatmaker and producer A.G.O, anchored by floating synths and minimal beats that give space for Maya and Rol3ert’s interlocking vocals to take centre stage.
Written from the perspective of two people on either side of a relationship that has already ended, “ROMANTICIZE” draws on intimate, everyday details — a guitar, polaroids, a hair tie, a bunk bed — to ground a deeply emotional story in something tangible and real. The song captures the quiet human tendency to polish painful memories until they become beautiful, and to long for moments that once hurt.
The vocal interplay between Maya and Rol3ert is central to the song’s emotional architecture. Maya’s fragile, transparent tone opens the story; Rol3ert’s voice carries a quiet heat that shifts the perspective. In the chorus, the male voice reaches out — “do you feel the same?” — and receives only an ambiguous response. The back-and-forth mirrors the push and pull of memory itself: unresolved, bittersweet, and impossible to let go.
The music video, directed by Taichi Nakazawa and set in an airport, extends this nostalgic, in-between feeling — a location that inherently evokes departure, distance, and the bittersweet weight of goodbye.
MAYA ON THE SONG:“This song is built around the concept of romanticizing the past, with a strong sense of narrative throughout. As a songwriter, I care most about how much of myself I can weave into a piece. I intentionally incorporated everyday objects from my own life — like a guitar, a hair tie, polaroids, and a bunk bed — while crafting a fictional story about two people whose relationship has fallen apart, leaving space for listeners to imagine parts of their story. The past is fragile — it fades over time. Even memories filled with complicated emotions begin to look beautiful as they lose their sharpness. You may even find yourself longing for moments that once hurt.”
ROL3ERT ON THE SONG:“We completed both the lyrics and the track on the spot during our very first session with Maya. So we really valued those in-the-moment flashes of intuition and impulse, and carried that mindset through to the very end of the process. Through our conversation, we quickly recognised shared feelings between Maya and me, and the theme fell into place right away. Because of that, I think the song clearly captures the necessity — and the power — of people from the same generation coming together to create and express something collaboratively.”
Rol3ert has been building rapid and organic momentum across Southeast Asia. His breakout single “(how could i be) honest?” charted on viral charts in Japan, Taiwan, and Hong Kong, earned heavy rotation on Singapore’s 987FM, and peaked at No.5 on Singapore’s Shazam charts — resonating especially with younger listeners for its emotionally direct songwriting in English, a quality that cuts across language barriers in the region.
His subsequent single “savior” was selected for Spotify’s New Music Friday in 22 countries, and his sold-out headline show at Shibuya WWW X in Tokyo underlined his growing status as a live artist. He performed at MUZ’POP JAM 2026 in Seoul in March, his first overseas performance, and is set to perform at SUMMER SONIC 2026 in Tokyo on the Spotify Stage. He has also been named one of Japan’s 25 representatives in Rolling Stone’s global “Future of Music” project, and was selected for Spotify Japan’s RADAR: Early Noise 2026.
With listeners spanning Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, Taiwan, South Korea, the United States, Brazil, and beyond, Rol3ert continues to establish himself as a Japanese artist with genuine global reach.
About Maya Maya is a high school singer-songwriter currently based in the United States. She first gained wide attention through acoustic cover videos on TikTok — her rendition of Vaundy’s “napori” exceeded 7.15 million streams, while her cover of Grover Washington Jr.’s “Just the Two of Us” surpassed 5.12 million streams — reflecting a fanbase with strong resonance across Asian music communities globally. In 2024, her voice caught the attention of renowned Japanese composer and producer Yoko Kanno, leading to her feature on “Blue feat. Maya” for Honda’s global campaign. She was also featured on m-flo’s revival single “HyperNova” and performed for a crowd of approximately 20,000 at SUMMER SONIC 2024. Her debut single “Red Lights,” released in August 2025, reached No.4 on J-WAVE’s SAISON CARD TOKIO HOT 100. She has since continued to expand her profile, performing on the soundtrack of director Mamoru Hosoda’s film alongside Ayumu Matsuda of RIKON.
Following viral covers surpassing 4 million views, he broke through with “(how could i be) honest?” and “savior”, both regional viral hits with over 500,000 Spotify streams in the first month. His latest single “savior” achieved #1 on the Billboard Japan Heatseekers Songs chart.
At just 20 years old, Rol3ert is emerging as one of Japan’s most exciting new talents, drawing attention for his bold vision and growing presence on the global music stage.
Globally renowned pop group Westlife announces the Asia leg of its much-awaited tour ‘WESTLIFE 25: The Anniversary World Tour’ with a concert in MANILA on January 20, 2027 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. Presented by Wilbros Live. Tickets will go on-sale on May 15 Friday, 12PM via SMTickets.com and SM Tickets outlets nationwide.
Running from September 2026, the tour promises a euphoric, hit-filled set spanning their extraordinary career, featuring timeless ballads and global chart-toppers. It kicks off with a 13-date residency in Dublin this September before heading across the UK and Europe, marking their first headline continental run in two decades.
Westlife today release their monumental era-defining album 25 – The Ultimate Collection, a celebration of their record-breaking 25-year journey at the very top of global pop. The album is available across multiple formats including 1CD, 2CD deluxe, 1LP, Amazon Exclusive 1LP picture disc and cassette. Listen HERE.
The release follows “Chariot”, written by Ed Sheeran, Johnny McDaid and Will Reynolds, and co-written and produced by Steve Mac and features on the new album alongside recent release “Your Love Amazes Me”. The collection brings together 21 of the band’s most beloved songs including “You Raise Me Up,” “Uptown Girl,” and “Flying Without Wings” alongside brand-new material recorded by all four members: Shane, Nicky, Kian and Mark.
Westlife said: “This year marks 25 years since we started this incredible journey together and it still feels like only the beginning. The support from our fans has been unbelievable, and to celebrate with this world tour, new music, and a brand-new album feels truly special. We can’t wait to see you all on the road and share this next chapter together.”
About Westlife
Over the last 25 years, Westlife have become one of the most successful pop groups of all time. Their music has been streamed over 3 billion times globally; they’ve achieved 36 No.1 albums worldwide, 14 UK No.1 singles (ranking only behind Elvis Presley and The Beatles), sold over 55 million records, surpassed 1 billion YouTube views, and sold more than 6 million concert tickets around the world. The Wild Dreams Tour sold over 1.2 million tickets alone. The band have performed over 200 shows since their reunion in 2019 across 30 countries. Westlife remain the UK & Ireland’s top-selling album group of the 21st century.
Singer-actor Inigo Pascual returns to recording with his new single, “Ikaw at Ikaw,” his comeback project with ABS-CBN’s premier record label Star Music.
“It feels like I’m coming back to my home. I can easily say that Star Music, they were the people that really saw the potential in me from the very beginning and they allowed me to create music, to even discover that I can be a composer. Sa kanila talaga nanggaling ang confidence ko when it comes to music,” shared Inigo.
He composed “Ikaw at Ikaw,” which is about finding oneself coming home to a loved one who has never lost their affection. The song was also inspired by his homecoming to the Philippines after moving back and forth between the country and the United States for his international career. It was arranged and produced by Gabriel Tagadtad.
“I wanted to go back to my roots, I wanted to go back to how I started as a musician,” he said.
ABS-CBN Music creatives, content, and operations head Jonathan Manalo shared their excitement about Inigo’s homecoming.
Jonathan said, “Inigo will always be family. Hindi naman talaga siya rin umalis sa amin. His songs, his music stayed with us. S’yemre pag narinig n’yo ang ‘Dahil Sayo,’ it will always be the signature of Inigo released under Star Music, and right now it’s like a full circle moment, and alam ko he will keep releasing songs under his home label.”
“Ikaw at Ikaw” is included in Inigo’s forthcoming album, which is expected to drop later this year and will feature several tracks penned by the singer-songwriter himself. Fans can also look forward to the release of the song’s music video, filmed in Batangas, happening soon.
Inigo has also popularized the songs “Balang Araw,” “Catching Feelings,” “Mr. Nice Guy,” and more, and sang the official Philippine version of Coco’s soundtrack “Remember Me.” He has previously released an international album “Options,” under Tarsier Records, before starring in the Hollywood series “Monarch.”
Check out Inigo’s “Ikaw at Ikaw,” now available on music streaming platforms. For more details, follow Star Music on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
Thousands of fans gathered at SM Mall of Asia Arena last May 8 as the Playback Punk, Rock, and Emo Music Festival brought together some of the biggest names in 2000s alternative music. Featuring live performances from Dashboard Confessional, Faber Drive, and The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, the concert delivered a night of nostalgia-filled anthems, emotional sing-alongs, and high-energy performances at one of the Philippines’ leading concert venues.
Dashboard Confessional and 2000s bands take the SM Mall of Asia Arena by storm.
Fans relived the peak of the emo and pop punk era through crowd-favorite tracks such as “Face Down,” “Vindicated,” and “Candy Store,” transforming the SM Mall of Asia Arena into a massive celebration of 2000s music culture. The event drew longtime listeners, alternative rock fans, and concertgoers dressed in emo-inspired fashion, band shirts, and throwback streetwear that reflected the era’s lasting influence on music and youth culture.
A generation reunited through music More than a live concert, the Playback Music Festival became a shared experience for fans who grew up listening to emo, punk rock, and alternative music during the early 2000s. The festival highlighted the strong connection between music, identity, and community, bringing together audiences from different generations through timeless hits and live performances.
Dressed in black, every fan brought expression to the Arena with era-coded outfits.
As one of the country’s premier indoor concert venues, the SM Mall of Asia Arena continues to host international artists, global touring acts, and large-scale entertainment events in the Philippines. Known for its world-class acoustics, immersive concert setup, and accessible location, the venue remains a top destination for music fans and live entertainment experiences.
Thousands of fans reach their hand out to meet their treasured 2000s idols.
Reliving the emo era live From the opening performance to the final encore, the night recreated the energy of the 2000s emo and alternative rock scene. Strobing lights, roaring guitars, and crowd-wide sing-alongs amplified the emotional atmosphere inside the arena, while the venue’s top-tier surround sound system and flexible arena layout elevated the overall concert experience.
Faber Drive performs ‘Candy Store’ at the Playback Music Festival.
One of the night’s standout moments came from The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus vocalist Ronnie Winter, who reflected on the emotional roots of emo music and its enduring connection with fans. “The second half [of the word ‘emo’] means emotional,” shared the 43-year-old frontman, whose band remains one of the genre’s most recognizable acts.
The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus rocks the stage after two years since their last return to the country.
A home for live entertainment communities The Playback Music Festival has continued to celebrate the music that defined a generation, bringing international emo, punk rock, and alternative artists closer to Filipino fans. For over 14 years, the SM Mall of Asia Arena has remained a home for world-class concerts and maxed-out entertainment experiences, welcoming artists, fan communities, and iconic performances across generations
A crowd under the throbbing lights sings with all their heart.
GMG Productions formally announced the highly awaited debut of Jesus Christ Superstar in Manila at a fun-filled press event that set the tone for a production that is both reverent and refreshingly new. The occasion, attended by media, creatives, and cast, heralded a bold new chapter in the renowned rock opera’s more than 50-year global heritage.
Joshua Bess, Javon King, and the Jesus Chris Superstar International Tour Company, photo by Vitt Salvador
The afternoon kicked off with GMG Productions CEO Carlos Candal saying he is proud to bring Jesus Christ Superstar to Filipino viewers, and that this production is more than what they expect. The creative team said they were aware of the sensitivity surrounding the subject and explained why the musical endures: its universal themes of humanity, doubt, faith, love, and choice. This is not a sentimental revival, but a modern, vibrant rendition meant to engage both longstanding fans and first-time theatergoers.
Gab Pangilinan and Joshua Bess, photo by Vitt Salvador
The diversity of the cast enriches the staging, bringing in different cultural viewpoints, physical expressions, and emotional depth. Each performer is different, each bringing their personality to the stage, making for a cast that is organic, raw, and undeniably alive.
This production hinges on a purposeful decision to humanize people who believe they already know. The actor playing Jesus does not come at the part as an untouchable figure but as a man struggling with fear, love, and destiny, making his journey very accessible. Mary Magdalene is a character of emotional honesty and sensitivity, while Judas is a confused man who is driven by belief, not simply betrayal. These multiple readings enable audiences to grapple with moral ambivalence, not moral judgment.
Jesus Christ Superstar International Tour Company, photo by Vitt Salvador
As a real rock opera, every moment of the performance is driven by live music. You see guitars on stage, a full live band behind the cast, and the sound is immediate and vivid, and alive the whole time. There’s the presence of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s classic music, yet nevertheless, it feels clearly current, aided by crystal-clear sound design that guarantees every line, guitar riff, and drum beat strikes with impact.
Dance and movement are a major storytelling tool, with the ensemble as a collective conscience, sometimes a crowd, sometimes witnesses, sometimes believers. Even in quiet, physicality and posture convey power dynamics and emotional strain, generating compelling visual tableaus that do not overpower the performances.
The Theatre at Solaire is the perfect place for this production. The atmosphere is tiny yet elegant, creating a rare connection between performers and audience so that every emotional beat resonates more strongly. Unlike larger arenas, Solaire’s welcoming environment pulls viewers into the heart of the story, blending grandeur and intimacy and deepening the impact of the Passion narrative.
Across the board, the cast is a vocal powerhouse. Jesus’ interpretation of “Gethsemane (I Only Want to Say)” is an awe-inspiring moment of naked vulnerability that demands the complete focus of the audience. Judas provides fire and pain in “Damned For All Time” and “Superstar.” Mary Magdalene’s sensitive rendering of “I Don’t Know How To Love Him” quiets the house and cries. Every performer gives their all, every note is packed with emotion and purpose, from the towering Caiaphas to the flamboyant King Herod to the indefatigable ensemble.
Joshua Bess and the Jesus Chris Superstar International Tour Company, photo by Vitt Salvador
More than five decades after its debut, Jesus Christ Superstar continues to speak powerfully across generations. For some in the cast, the show is deeply personal, woven into childhood memories of spinning vinyl records, family traditions, or first introductions to musical theater. For others, this production marked their first true encounter with the material. Yet regardless of history, many described the experience as “coming home,” even while discovering new layers to the story each night. They describe this version of Jesus Christ Superstar in a single word, answers ranged from truthful to raw, overwhelming, and powerful. Together, they form a fitting portrait of a production that honors its legacy while speaking directly to the present moment.
Gab Pangilinan, photo by Vitt Salvador
Perhaps most meaningful was the cast’s collective gratitude toward Filipino audiences. From the warmth of the reception at preview nights to the generosity felt beyond the stage, performers repeatedly expressed how Manila has embraced the production wholeheartedly. “The energy here is something special, you can feel the audience listening, breathing, and reacting with us. It makes every performance feel alive.” The international ensemble, drawn from multiple continents, echoed the same feeling of unity. Despite coming together in just days, one actor described the process as “joyful chaos that somehow turned into magic,” noting that the sense of trust and connection onstage mirrors the humanity the show seeks to portray.
Jesus Christ Superstar International Tour Company, photo by Vitt Salvador
The staging of Jesus Christ Superstar honors its legacy while speaking directly to today’s world. It is not only a theatrical triumph, but an emotional and spiritual experience, one that leaves audiences moved, energized, and deeply engaged and as the cast shared. “We’re playing human beings, people who loved deeply, doubted fiercely, and believed they were doing the right thing.” That perspective, repeated throughout the discussion, lies at the heart of this staging.
The SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena continues to anchor major live events in the Philippines, with a Q2 lineup led by women across global pop, OPM, and pageantry. From sold-out concerts to national competitions, the venue drew thousands of fans and reinforced its role as a platform for large-scale, women-led entertainment.
A celebration comes alive at the SM Mall of Asia Arena with Sexbomb Girls.
A Powerful Return to the Venue IVE returned to the Arena on April 25, delivering a high-energy show for thousands of Filipino fans, known collectively as DIVE.
Known for hits like “I AM,” “Baddie,” and “Rebel Heart,” the group combined sharp choreography with strong live vocals. Each member staged solo performances, adding depth to the setlist and strengthening fan engagement. The show marked their return to the venue following their 2024 concert, with a visibly larger and more engaged audience.
IVE makes a comeback to the SM Mall of Asia Arena. Photo Source: Live Nation Philippines on Facebook.IVE performs ‘I AM’ exhibiting powerful vocals and skill.
Talent and Charisma knows no age SexBomb Girls closed their five-day run at the Arena on April 30, drawing a multi-generational audience.
The SM Mall of Asia Arena lights up with SexBomb Girl’s performance.
The production leaned into nostalgia while scaling up for a modern arena experience. The show featured large ensemble numbers, themed segments, and guest appearances from SB19’s Stell, Apl.de.Ap, and Wendell Ramos. The performance reinforced the group’s longevity and their continued pull across age groups.
SexBomb Rochelle Pangilinan is joined by SB19’s Stell for their performance of ‘Baile’.
Along with a generation of fans who grew up with the group, the concert became a reflection of thriving Filipino novelty music in the Philippines.
Confidence in every walk The Arena also hosted the Miss Universe Philippines 2026 coronation night on May 2, bringing together 50 candidates from across the country.
50 candidates take part in the Miss Universe Philippines 2026 competition.
Bea Millan-Windorski of La Union secured the crown, earning the right to represent the Philippines on the global stage. The event highlighted the scale and production value expected from one of the country’s leading national competitions.
Miss Universe Philippines 2026 crowns a new queen.
A venue for scale and influence Across genres and formats, the SM Mall of Asia Arena continues to host high-impact events that attract large audiences and deliver premium live entertainment. From concerts and cultural performances to national pageants, the venue reinforces its position as a destination for immersive, maxed out experiences that place women at the forefront of today’s entertainment scene.
Filipino P-Pop sensation BINI serenaded Senator Bam Aquino with a birthday song when they visited the Senate on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, to receive recognition for their historic stint at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in Indio, California.
Sen. Bam, who turned a year older on Thursday, May 7, playfully danced as the “Nation’s Girl Group” sang a cheerful birthday greeting.
Afterward, the group joined the plenary session, where they received a parchment copy of Sen. Bam’s Senate Resolution No. 370, which was officially adopted by the Senate in recognition of their achievement.
In his resolution, Sen. Bam lauded BINI for bringing pride and honor to the country and for showcasing Filipino talent and artistry on the global stage during their April 10 and 17, 2026 performances at Coachella, one of the world’s most prestigious and highest-grossing music festivals.
“Sa kauna-unahang pagkakataon, isang Filipino act ang nagtanghal sa isa sa pinakamalaking music festivals sa buong mundo. Masasabi natin na ang tagumpay na ito ay isang Salamin ng galing at talento ng Pilipino sa pandaigdigang entablado,” Sen. Bam said in his sponsorship speech.
“Ang tagumpay ng BINI ay isang panalong dapat ipagdiwang sa gitna ng mga hamon at krisis na kinahaharap ng ating bansa. Sa kanilang pagtatanghal sa Coachella, ipinamalas nila ang ating Filipino Pride sa pamamagitan ng pagsasama ng mga tradisyonal na elemento sa kanilang mga kasuotan, musika, at koreograpiya,” he added.
Sen. Bam emphasized that BINI’s accomplishment on the international stage will serve as an inspiration for many Filipino youth to strive for their dreams.
“Ang kanilang tagumpay ay nagsisilbing inspirasyon sa napakaraming kabataang Pilipino na mangarap at maniwala na kaya rin nilang maabot ang world stage,” he pointed out.
Coachella royalty BINI serenading Sen. Bam on his birthday.
Historic Coachella performers BINI dropped by the Senate yesterday to receive recognition, and ended up serenading Sen. Bam Aquino on his birthday. What a moment! Happiest birthday, Sen. Bam! 🇵🇭 #BamBinipic.twitter.com/95JoB3daHf
The Senator also said that BINI’s Coachella appearance is not only a victory for the music industry, but also for the entire Philippines.
“Pinatutunayan nito ang lumalaking potensyal ng ating creative economy at ang kakayahan nitong magbigay ng dangal at oportunidad sa ating mga kababayan sa buong mundo,” he stressed, adding that his daughters, Rory and Coco, are certified fans of BINI, whose fandom is called “BLOOM.”
“Pinagmamalaki ko na ang aking mga anak ay kabilang sa ‘Bloom’ community at pati shared Spotify account namin ay halos puro BINI ang kanta,” he added.
BINI is composed of Maraiah Queen Arceta (Aiah), Ma. Nicolette Vergara (Colet), Mary Loi Yves Ricalde (Maloi), Gweneth Apuli (Gwen), Lindtsey Stacey Aubrey Sevilleja (Stacey), Mikhaela Janna Lim (Mikha), Jhoanna Christine Robles (Jhoanna), and Sheena Mae Catacutan (Sheena).
Sen. Bam is a staunch supporter of Filipino talent. During the 2022 and 2025 election campaigns, he tapped local artists to celebrate their talents and skills, and once again highlighted the strength of Filipino music during the People Power 40 Kick-Off Concert.
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